As for Pierce, he placed the entire debacle in perspective with a few deft sentences. “Gossip and meanness have a way of making one feel beaten down, but they themselves are of small origin. They have no character. So keep yours intact and carry on.” “Hear, hear,” from Islington. I looked at Pierce, his silver eyes always sharper come night. His words held an earned gravity and, as a result, my worry moved to a smaller place.
